Chicago

[ggiese]

Some buddies and I will be heading up to Chicago next month to watch the Cards play the Cubs.

Now I know there is a smoking ban for the entire state of Illinois, but I was wondering if places that sell cigars are exempt from the ban? If so what are some good cigar friendly places to go to in and around Chicago? lounges/stores/bars etc.

PS. What are some must go to places for food, I have been to Chicago several times in the past and already have several favorites, but I am always interested in trying new things. They all don't necessarily have to be cigar friendly.


Thanks!

It depends on where you're staying. I suppose you're not likely staying downtown (that will cost you an arm and leg) but staying somewhere on the north side...

One of the better cigar places near the north side (north of Wrigley Field) is Cigar King in Skokie. Big lounge, plenty of free parking, and they allow you to bring in your drink of choice.

And I don't think you'll have any difficulty finding a nice restaurant, but I'd suggest you look up Pizzeria Uno and Pizzeria Due (both within blocks of each other on the near north side). In my view, the best Chicago style pizza in the city. Both restaurants are the original for the chain, and I think their pizza's and atmosphere are vastly different than you get in the chain restaurants. But - you be the judge...

You also won't go wrong with Lou Malnati's, Giordano's, Gino's East, Edwardo's, If you're near the south side, look up Home Run Inn - their thin crust is one of the best.

Of course - you're not living unless you try "Chicago Style" hotdogs and a Chicago favorite Italian Beef Sandwich (with melted cheese and sweet peppers). Plenty of places around you can find those - too many to list - but if you find a Portillo's restaurant, you're in a good place. Portillo's

And - if you're adventurous - go to Greek Town and eat at the Greek Islands or Santorini's. Both have fantastic food, easy to get to (right off 290) and reasonably priced. Chicago Greektown

China Town is also a great place, with plenty of fantastic restaurants. Again - not that difficult to find, and right off the expressway just south of downtown (off I-94, just south of I-55). Chicago Chinatown

Have fun while you're in Chicago - there's plenty to see and do!

[denver24]

And I don't think you'll have any difficulty finding a nice restaurant, but I'd suggest you look up Pizzeria Uno and Pizzeria Due (both within blocks of each other on the near north side). In my view, the best Chicago style pizza in the city. Both restaurants are the original for the chain, and I think their pizza's and atmosphere are vastly different than you get in the chain restaurants. But - you be the judge...

You also won't go wrong with Lou Malnati's, Giordano's, Gino's East, Edwardo's, If you're near the south side, look up Home Run Inn - their thin crust is one of the best.

I was in Chi-Town two weeks ago and I had Due's and Lou Malnatis. They were both great! We didn't get to Gino's East, but that's my personal favorite after years of visiting Chicago.

Have fun, I love that city!

[Smoked!]

If you like good beer and German fare try the Berghoff. This one is old school and authentic.

http://www.theberghoff.com/default.aspx

[ggiese]

Oooh... Don't forget Ditka's! Their pork chops are the BOMB!!!

[ashauler]

Oooh... Don't forget Ditka's! Their pork chops are the BOMB!!!

Absolutely!! You can also pick up a "Kick Ass Cigar" while you're there. I don't think they are still made by Graycliff, though they may be. Decent smoke in any regard, though a bit overpriced......cool lookin' glass tube though.